The 2026 high school football season brings a packed slate for the Salpointe Lancers, who open the year with a series against Marana before traveling to face Tucson, Chandler, Gilbert Highland and Basha. The schedule not only tests the team’s depth but also revives several long‑standing rivalries that have defined Arizona high school football.
A renewed rivalry
Salpointe and Marana have met every year for the past four seasons, creating a streak that fans eagerly anticipate. The Lancers hold a 44‑24‑1 edge over Tucson in 69 meetings, and a 60‑year run of consecutive games between the two schools was snapped after 2019. That year, Salpointe routed Tucson 62‑0, with Bijan Robinson rushing for 282 yards, a performance still talked about in local lore.
Coaching continuity
Pat Ryden, now in his third season as head coach, carries a 15‑9 record and is looking to build on the momentum of last year’s 6‑5 finish that saw the team fall in the 6A semifinals. Ryden’s steady presence has helped anchor a roster that returns several key contributors while integrating new talent.
Road tests and rising stars
The upcoming road stretch includes a showdown with Chandler, a team that will field former Salpointe quarterback Jake Rogers, now playing under his father Eric Rogers, who was not retained as head coach. Rogers transferred to Basha, where he joins running back Chris Chaney and lineman Brady Allen, both of whom also made the move. The Lancers will also meet Gilbert Highland and Basha in games that could shape playoff positioning.
Beyond the marquee matchups, the Lancers have a packed road schedule that features contests against Scottsdale Saguaro and Gilbert Perry, underscoring the competitive nature of the 2026 season. With a blend of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers, Salpointe aims to translate early‑season tests into a deep playoff run.